OR Special Procedures Tech II

About the Role

Under general supervision of the Medical Imaging Manager, OR Lead Radiologic Technologist, the Department’s Medical Director, and surgeon’s regimens and procedure protocols, this role uses specialized equipment to produce Picture Archiving and Communications System (PACS) images for surgeons performing specialized endovascular angiographic examinations in the OR. The technologist operates high-speed PACS imaging equipment, selects and captures images for archiving, and operates a pressure injector for delivering contrast media through catheters positioned by the physician. All essential functions reflect age-specific needs of geriatric, adult, and pediatric patients while fostering patient- and family-centered care in accordance with Lifespan and Rhode Island Hospital’s mission, vision, and values.

Responsibilities

• Transfer, position, and instruct patients regarding procedures to obtain desired radiographic diagnostic results as specified by the physician; use immobilization and other devices as necessary.
• Provide radiation protection to unaffected areas of the body using lead shields in accordance with prescribed safety standards.
• Calculate and select proper technical factors such as voltage, current exposure time, and focal distance based on patient size, physical condition, and suspected pathology.
• Check equipment and accessories to ensure proper operating condition.
• Assist physicians in specialized examinations by preparing contrast media, holding and turning patients, administering contrast media, and passing instruments and supplies.
• Prepare the power injector for proper delivery of contrast material according to surgeon-defined protocols.
• Operate x-ray equipment according to specific diagnostic procedures and established routines.
• Review processed images to ensure acceptable quality for diagnostic purposes.
• Utilize portable x-ray equipment for diagnostic procedures in patient rooms, surgery, or other locations where patient transfer is not feasible.
• Report equipment performance problems and coordinate with vendors for repairs to minimize disruption to OR operations.
• Ensure examinations and related records are properly completed for patient identification, statistical, and billing purposes.
• Maintain a clean and orderly work environment, ensuring examination rooms are properly supplied.
• Monitor daily room checklists, order supplies, and communicate needs to the lead technologist or coordinator.
• Record and complete logs, reports, and paperwork pertinent to procedures performed (e.g., fluoro time).
• Practice ALARA principles of radiation protection, including the use and exchange of personal dosimeters.
• Provide guidance to students or other unit personnel on methods, techniques, and procedures.
• Review DR and XA images for technical quality and demographic accuracy before sending to PACS; make necessary corrections in a timely manner.
• Merge and track incomplete exams to the appropriate patient file.
• Oversee imaging services during surgical procedures.
• Maintain and update Life Chart daily to reflect correct patient charges and adjust supplies for the precise date of the exam.
• Act as technologist in charge in the absence of supervisors.
• Handle assignments related to documentation, quality control, and computer maintenance.
• Collaborate with the Manager and Lead Technologist to prepare training, instruction, orientation, and evaluation of students.
• Train newly hired Radiologic Technologists to work in the endovascular suite as needed.
• Provide in-service education for students, staff technologists, or other staff members and maintain appropriate records.
• Prepare monthly QA documentation and ensure it is complete and up to date.
• Maintain department workflow and staff efficiency for maximum throughput.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Interpersonal skills to interact effectively with patients, families, departmental staff, physicians, and others, including patients under physical or emotional stress.
• Ability to operate all types of x-ray and related equipment, push portable equipment, and transfer and position patients.
• Conceptual ability to determine means of providing requested radiographs of acceptable diagnostic quality based on case specifics.
• Knowledge and skills to provide care with consideration of aging processes, human development stages, and cultural patterns.
• Registration through the American Registry for Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).
• Two years of formal training in an accredited School of Radiologic Technology.
• Current and valid license from the Department of Health to practice in the State of Rhode Island.
• In-depth knowledge of advanced imaging equipment and procedures.

Qualifications for Radiologic Technologist II Position

For consideration of a Radiologic Technologist II position, the following is required:

• Two letters of recommendation obtained within the previous three months from technical, supervisory, or medical staff members attesting to professionalism and technical competency.
• Two criteria from the following, selected by the technologist:
  • Take an active advanced teaching role in one of the Schools of Technology (e.g., teaching didactic courses, presenting lectures, or performing duties of the clinical coordinator), provided the technologist is qualified under the Essentials and Guidelines of an accredited educational program for Radiographers.
  • Develop new methods of patient tracking, quality control, testing efficiency, safety, or quality assurance.
  • Prepare at least one in-service program delivered at least three times in one year, approved by the American Society of Radiologic Technology for the equivalent of at least one continuing education unit.
  • Hold an office in or actively serve on a clinical practice committee of a professional organization relevant to the technologist’s specialized modality.
  • Participate as a regular member of a technical, clinical, or quality assurance committee within Diagnostic Imaging, as evidenced by meeting minutes.
  • Write and publish an article in a recognized professional journal or receive published acknowledgment by the first author of the technologist’s contribution.
  • Coordinate the development, implementation, and approval of a new procedure or protocol that enhances efficiency and/or quality of work in the section.

Experience

• Minimum of 3 years’ experience in the job classification.
• Between one and three months of orientation and on-the-job training to become familiar with job responsibilities.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements

• Main Radiology Department or smaller satellite operations with minimal discomfort from noise, dust, or temperature.
• Exposure to radiation, with minimal risk of illness or injury when established safety procedures are followed.
• Continuous standing, walking, pushing portable radiographic equipment, and lifting and positioning patients.

Independent Action

Performs independently within department policies and practices. Refers specific complex problems to the Lead Technologist or Manager when clarification of policies and procedures is required.

Supervisory Responsibility

Acts as technologist in charge in the absence of supervisors.

Pay

$36.76 - $60.07 per hour.

Schedule

• Monday through Friday, days.
• Occasional weekends and holidays at the discretion of the Director.